This Small Oahu City Is Identified for Stunning Lagoons, Luxe Inns, and a Beloved Disney Resort

With sunny skies year-round, world-class seashores, and very good eating, it’s little surprise that Hawaii sits atop many a traveler’s wishlist. Oahu is probably the most visited island within the Hawaiian archipelago, and whereas the capital metropolis of Honolulu is standard with vacationers, simply 45 minutes west you’ll discover Kapolei. Often called the “second metropolis” of Oahu, Kapolei feels far faraway from the frenetic power of Waikiki Seaside and its adjoining vacationer locales. On the southwest tip of the island, although, time strikes just a little slower as you sip that Mai Tai, and the seashores are extra serene. 

Kapolei is thought for its wealthy pure surroundings and miles of shoreline. Vacationers are drawn to the marina and the resort neighborhood of Ko Olina, which is the place you may discover a number of man-made lagoons with crystal-clear water and beautiful white-sand seashores. Located alongside these waters are Kapolei’s hottest resorts, together with Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa and 4 Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina. And the world shines even brighter with an outpost of beloved Hawaiian restaurant Monkeypod Kitchen, plus unimaginable luaus and an award-winning golf course. Learn on for extra particulars about this magical nook of Oahu.

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Disney’s storytelling excellence blends seamlessly with the island lifestyle at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa. The oceanfront resort, voted one of many 15 Greatest United States Resorts for Households in 2022 by Journey and Leisure readers, has a extra upscale really feel than its mainland Disney counterparts and options stand-out eating, a luxurious spa, expansive water park, and posh lodging that vary from studio rooms to multi-room suites.

“You possibly can anticipate Disney’s service and hospitality with out the theme park really feel,” shares Jim Bendt, a T+L A Checklist Advisor. “The property has been designed to honor Hawaiian tradition intertwined with Disney’s characters.”

Aulani packs in limitless actions — a lot in order that there’s little or no motive to go away — from film nights to ukulele courses. “My favourite exercise is our lovely Rainbow Reef,” shares Aulani visitor service supervisor Alyssa-Lende Kane. “Snorkeling within the wide-open ocean will be intimidating, however our Rainbow Reef offers a protected and enjoyable setting to see our dazzling marine life with out the troubles of unpredictable currents.”

4 Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina delivers the model’s signature hospitality and personalised service at its first-ever property in Oahu. The five-star, oceanfront resort shares a lagoon with Aulani; inside, it oozes opulence. Elegantly appointed lodging vary from commonplace rooms to sky-high, two-bedroom pied-à-terre suites with personal terraces overlooking the ocean. 

“Its oceanfront rooms have wonderful views, and the adults-only infinity pool affords the serenity {couples} are in search of,” shares Bendt. “Right here, the aloha spirit and hospitality are completed the 4 Seasons method.” 

You’ll discover bars, eating places, a number of swimming pools, tennis courts, a personal seashore, and a wellness spa at one among Hawaii’s finest accommodations.

A resort and timeshare property, Marriott’s Ko Olina Seaside Membership is situated throughout the road from the Ko Olina Golf Membership and is ready on a man-made lagoon. It’s the perfect household resort in Kapolei with clear waters, informal eateries, and a number of other expansive pool areas throughout its attractive grounds. With lodging that vary from commonplace visitor rooms to multi-bedroom villas with full kitchens, it is a nice selection for households with children or a multi-generational getaway.

The southwest aspect of Oahu could also be sleepy come dusk in comparison with different Hawaii locations, however it’s house to a number of the finest luaus. Ka Wa’a’ – A Luau on Oahu at Aulani and Paradise Cove Luau verify all of the packing containers on the subject of the sought-after Hawaiian expertise, together with cultural ceremonies, scrumptious fare, flowing drinks, and jaw-dropping dwell leisure.

Soak in all that the outside has to supply at Barbers Level Lighthouse, the hidden gem of Kapolei. This a part of the shoreline options picturesque views, rocky shorelines, picnic spots, and ideally suited waters for fishing. When you can’t ascend to the highest of the hovering 71-foot-tall lighthouse, the encircling space makes for beautiful sundown photographs.